Crispy Warm Goat Cheese Salad with Honey-Lemon Vinaigrette
This delightful Crispy Warm Goat Cheese Salad combines the creamy richness of goat cheese with the bright flavors of a honey-lemon vinaigrette. The goat cheese is crusted in a savory breadcrumb and sesame seed mixture, then pan-fried to perfection, creating a warm and indulgent topping for a bed of fresh mixed baby greens. Finished with kalamata olives and a tangy dressing, this salad is a perfect balance of textures and flavors, ideal for a luxurious lunch or a light snack. It's a wonderful dish that will impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds! Enjoy this Southern Living classic that's as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
olive oil
1/3 cup (cold-pressed or extra virgin)
lemon juice
1/3 cup (freshly squeezed)
green onion
1 tablespoon (thinly sliced)
honey
1 tablespoon (pure)
Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon
Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
1/2 cup
Parmesan cheese
1 1/2 tablespoons (grated)
sesame seeds
1 1/2 tablespoons
goat cheese
12 ounces (divided into three logs)
egg
1 large (lightly beaten)
butter
3 tablespoons (for frying)
mixed baby greens
10 ounces
kalamata olives
12 (pitted and sliced)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, sliced green onion, honey, and Dijon mustard. Whisk well until all ingredients are fully incorporated to create a smooth dressing.
2
In another bowl, mix together the Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and sesame seeds until evenly distributed.
3
Slice each log of goat cheese into four equal discs. Dip each slice in the lightly beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating. Cover and refrigerate for at least two hours to set.
4
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the breaded goat cheese slices in the skillet, frying in batches for about 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels to absorb excess butter.
5
In a large bowl, toss the mixed baby greens with the prepared dressing until well coated. Divide the greens onto plates, top with warm goat cheese slices, and sprinkle with sliced kalamata olives. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crispy Warm Goat Cheese Salad?
It is a salad featuring pan-fried, breaded goat cheese discs served over mixed baby greens with a homemade honey-lemon vinaigrette.
What type of goat cheese should I use?
The recipe calls for three 4-ounce goat cheese logs, which are then sliced into equal discs.
How many goat cheese discs does this recipe produce?
By slicing three logs into four discs each, you will have a total of 12 crispy goat cheese slices.
What are the ingredients in the honey-lemon vinaigrette?
The dressing consists of olive oil, fresh lemon juice, sliced green onion, honey, and Dijon mustard.
How do I prepare the goat cheese coating?
Mix Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and sesame seeds in a bowl for the breading.
Why must the goat cheese be refrigerated for two hours?
Refrigeration allows the breadcrumb coating and the cheese to set, ensuring the discs don't fall apart or melt too quickly during frying.
What is the best way to slice goat cheese logs?
To get clean slices, use a sharp knife or unflavored dental floss to cut the log into four equal discs.
How long should I fry the goat cheese?
Fry the breaded discs in butter for about 1 to 2 minutes per side until they are golden brown.
What type of greens are used in this recipe?
The recipe uses 10 ounces of mixed baby greens.
Are there any specific olives recommended for this salad?
Yes, the recipe suggests using 12 pitted and sliced kalamata olives.
Is this recipe considered vegetarian?
Yes, this salad is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products.
Can I use a different type of oil for the dressing?
The recipe recommends cold-pressed or extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
What is the purpose of the Dijon mustard in the dressing?
Dijon mustard acts as an emulsifier to help the oil and lemon juice blend into a smooth vinaigrette.
How do I prevent the goat cheese from sticking to the pan?
Ensure the butter is melted and hot over medium-high heat before adding the cheese slices.
Can I substitute the Italian breadcrumbs?
You can use plain breadcrumbs and add your own Italian herbs like oregano and basil if needed.
What can I use instead of honey?
You can substitute honey with agave nectar or maple syrup for a similar sweetness.
Is it okay to use bottled lemon juice?
Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for the brightest flavor in the vinaigrette.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
You can prep the dressing and bread the cheese in advance, but the cheese should be fried and the salad tossed just before serving.
How many ingredients are required for this recipe?
This recipe requires a total of 13 ingredients.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
Tags include salad, goat cheese, warm salad, lunch, snack, southern living, healthy, easy recipe, vegetarian, and appetizer.
What is the role of the egg in the recipe?
The lightly beaten egg acts as a binder, helping the breadcrumb mixture stick to the goat cheese discs.
Can I bake the goat cheese instead of frying it?
While the recipe calls for pan-frying, you could bake them at a high temperature, though they may not be as evenly golden.
Should I serve the salad warm or cold?
The greens and dressing are cool, but the goat cheese should be served warm for the best contrast.
How do I ensure the breading is even?
Dredge the egg-dipped cheese thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture and gently press the coating onto the surface.
What type of onion is best for the vinaigrette?
The recipe specifically calls for thinly sliced green onions.
Can I use a different cheese for frying?
Goat cheese is preferred for its creaminess, but you could try feta or halloumi, though the texture and saltiness will differ.
What is the texture of the finished goat cheese?
The exterior is crispy and savory due to the breadcrumbs and sesame, while the interior remains warm and creamy.
Is there a specific way to drain the cheese after frying?
Yes, remove the slices from the skillet and place them on paper towels to absorb any excess butter.
What kind of parmesan should I use?
Grated parmesan cheese is mixed into the breading for extra flavor and crunch.
Is this a good dish for guests?
Absolutely! It is described as a luxurious dish that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.